Senior classmen are usually the key to a successful high school varsity football campaign and Oxford Coach Bud Rowley said this season’s group is key to whether the team can defend its Flint Metro League championship.
There will be 18 seniors occupying the 22 offensive and defensive positions and Rowley said he is confident the group will perform well.
‘There is no doubt we should be successful due to our senior leadership,? Rowley said. ‘We will go as the seniors go.?
The Wildcats will begin defense of their Flint Metro League crown on Thursday when they travel to Clio for a 7 p.m. game.
The first home game of the year will be next Friday when league newcomer Kearsley visits Oxford for a 7 p.m. game.
Last year the Wildcats finished 8-2, with one league loss to Lapeer East and a playoff loss to Davison.
The team will be led by second year starting quarterback Nick Tombrella. Geoffrey Charles will start at fullback on offense and outside linebacker on defense. Austyn Sylva will see action at tailback. Evan Sanderson and Josh Roe be wide-outs.
The only underclassman on offense will be junior A.J. Logan, at wingback.
Offensive linemen will include Gerry Murphy, Tyler Dunlap, Nick Pearlman, Dylan Smith and Mike Myer.
The defense will feature eight seniors and three underclassmen.
A linebacker corps will consist of Charles, Mario Paese and sophomore Aaron Stuk.
Dalton Lyons, Smith and Murphy will alternate at interior line and help anchor the defense. Tony Esparsa and Myer will start at defensive ends.
Dennis Brown, Matt Pollack, Juniors Gabe Grifka and Gary Wurtz will start in the defensive backfield.
Rowley said he also is very confident in the abilities of those who will back up the first team offense and defense.
Injuries are always part of a season and Rowley said he is confident other seniors and underclassmen will step up when necessary and do a great job.
‘The seniors will be key to the 2008 season,? Rowley said. ‘How the senior go is key. The phrase you are only as good as your seniors is true. It’s the seniors? turns to put their highlights together.?